Patch Candidate Profile: Ann Penington, East Haven Town Council

EAST HAVEN, CT —The 2023 municipal election is heating up in East Haven and there are plenty of local races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

East Haven Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Name

Democrat Ann Penington, 55, of East Haven, is running for the District 1 seat on the Town Council.

Education.

Community College

What is your occupation?

Senior Clinical Receptionist

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

I have two wonderful children. My daughter Ashley and son Sean and 5 grandchildren.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

No elective office held. I’ve served on many boards in East Haven

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I believe that I work well with people. I am good at listening and can relate to the residents in town. I hope to make East Haven the best it can be.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Housing costs. I hope to work with the town to keep budgets tight and help with keeping taxes as low as possible.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I have a unique perspective because I understand what it means to work hard towards creating a better life for my children.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

We need to work with our teachers to improve attendance records and test scores among children in our schools.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I am President of the American Legion Auxiliary and an active member of the Rotary Club. I have experience in leadership activities that have prepared me to be a contributing member of the Town Council

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

To listen to others

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?